Transparent and Flexible Broadband Microwave Absorber Based on a Nested Open‐Ring Metallic Mesh Architecture
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: ABSTRACT Transparent and flexible microwave absorbers (TFMAs) are highly desirable for next‐generation electromagnetic stealth and shielding systems that demand conformal integration onto curved or deformable platforms, such as aircraft radomes, flexible displays, and wearable optoelectronic devices. However, most existing transparent absorbers rely on rigid substrates or brittle conductive layers, which are fundamentally incompatible with flexible and conformal applications. In this work, we propose an all‐mesh‐based multilayer TFMA that consists of a nested double open‐ring resonant layer formed by metallic meshes and a mesh‐covered reflective backing. Unlike continuous conductive films, the subwavelength mesh topology sustains intense localized electromagnetic resonance while permitting high visible transmission. This design enables a broadband absorption exceeding 90% across 4.9–12.3 GHz, covering both C‐ and X‐bands, and simultaneously exhibits an average visible transmittance of 75.8% and excellent mechanical flexibility. Moreover, the absorber delivers robust polarization and angle‐insensitive performance under oblique incidence, and retains over 80% absorption efficiency after rigorous static and cyclic bending tests, confirming exceptional mechanical durability. This work establishes a scalable design strategy for transparent microwave absorbers based on mesh‐engineered electromagnetic architectures, offering a promising pathway toward conformal electromagnetic protection compatible with optoelectronic and curved platforms.
Source: Advanced Electronic Materials
DOI: 10.1002/aelm.70608
Institutions: Suzhou City University, Soochow University
Language: English
Field: Materials Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,560
Awards: G484177049, G8885945878
OpenAlex ID: W7222043308